ORIGIN

Ex-Goodwood & Concours Restoration: Bedford S Type Tanker

This Bedford S Type tanker isn’t listed with a model year, but production spanned every year of the 1950’s, and they were a popular commercial platform across the UK for a long time after. This example was found severely dilapidated with no engine or transmission back in 2006, but has since been restored to what’s called concours condition. The truck reportedly just completed a trip to the Goodwood Revival and back last month, while it previously took first place at multiple concours events in 2016. The build process isn’t described in much detail, but highlights include accurate hand-painted signage, a correct engine and other difficult to replicate details. Find it here on eBay in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, England for 45k GBP (~$60k USD today). Special thanks to BaT reader Kyle K. for this submission.

These trucks had the largest weight rating of any Bedford truck, tipping the scales at just over 7,000 kg or roughly 15,400 pounds. Most often used to haul cargo, they also served as the basis for a number of fire engines and at least a few were tankers like this. Along with a period photograph which served as inspiration during restoration, another severely deteriorated example that still wore its Shell livery was also referenced. The restoration process took nearly a decade, and was carried out by the seller and their father with truly impressive attention to detail. Accurate hardwood dipsticks are mentioned, while the latticework atop the tank is also made of wood. Nozzles, fixtures and the coupling between the tractor and trailer are all billed as correct, and the wheel and tire setup looks right too. Note the muffler and fog lamp situated beneath the front end of the cab.

This Shell-Mex BP livery is definitely eye catching, and the back end of the tanker advertises Shell X-100, the good stuff.

It doesn’t look like any part of the interior was skipped over during restoration. Switchgear, upholstery and paint look great, and the padded engine lid heat jacket is cool too.

Responsible for keeping things moving is a 4.9 liter (300 ci) gas straight-six. This engine was rated at 110 HP at 3200 RPM and is is coupled to a 4-speed manual which features synchromesh for for 2nd through 4th. Once again, specifics relating to the engine’s build aren’t listed, but it looks very clean.

The above and below photos show what the restoration process began with, which make the end product even more impressive.

Here’s the tanker trailer before refurbishment. Believed to be one of just a few remaining and the only one in this condition, this truck must draw a crowd wherever it goes.